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Course Summary

History of Castles

From earliest times, walls have been used as a protection around cities and palaces, and were often of enormous thickness and of great height. Some were also surrounded by a moat, making it even harder to invade and others had towers to keep a lookout for the approaching enemy.

The different styles of castles developed over a long period of time and changed to suit the needs and desires of their builders.

Early castles had very little furniture other than beds, tables and chairs but as time went on castle furniture became more luxurious and demonstrated the wealth of the owner.

Food and entertainment were important parts of medieval life in a castle. Medieval banquets always sound wonderful but what was food and cooking really like in the Middle Ages?

Medieval Castle life was strictly governed by the medieval feudal system - a "Pyramid of Power". If you were a Lord at the top of the pyramid, life was obviously full of the comforts of life. But for the poor life was often harsh and short.

Entertainment was extremely important to people who lived in the medieval era and was popular whenever there was something to celebrate such as betrothals, weddings, victories and festivals. The nobles enjoyed banquets, jousts and troubadours while the poor celebrated important days of the year with fairs, sport and feasts.

The word "castle" comes from the Latin word "castellum," which means "fortified place." Defence in time of war was the primary purpose of a castle.

The Medieval period was dominated by the feudal system and the role of the Knights and their servants. When we think of the medieval times we often think of Knights and their ladies. It was the duty of a Knight to learn how to fight and so serve their liege Lord according to the Code of Chivalry.